Thugs in large numbers attacked the convoy of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, on Tuesday, preventing him from visiting victims of a recent terrorist attack in Benue State.
The interception occurred along the Gboko-Makurdi Expressway, forcing the political leader to abort his scheduled visit to Yelwata in the Guma Local Government Area. Obi had travelled to the state to sympathise with the survivors and families of those killed during the June 13, 2025, terrorist attack.
While the candidate had successfully arrived in Makurdi earlier in the day, the attack on the Gboko-Makurdi Expressway prevented the delegation from reaching the Guma community as planned.
Security challenges in Guma Local Government Area
The Gboko-Makurdi axis and Guma Local Government Area have long been identified as high-risk zones due to recurring instances of banditry and communal violence. The inability of a high-profile political figure to navigate these routes highlights the persistent security gaps affecting movement within the state.
The June 13, 2025, terrorist attack in Yelwata caused widespread destruction and significant loss of life, leaving many families in the region displaced. Obi’s planned visit was intended to provide social support to the bereaved families and survivors who have been calling for increased state protection and humanitarian intervention.
Political observers suggest that such disruptions in volatile areas limit the ability of opposition leaders to conduct grassroots engagements. The security situation in Benue remains a critical issue for political stability, as incidents of lawlessness frequently interfere with official political activities and public gatherings.
The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has yet to release a formal statement regarding the specifics of the attack or the safety of the candidate during the encounter. Security agencies in Benue State are expected to provide an update on the deployment of additional personnel to the Gboko-Makurdi axis in the coming hours.
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